Milka Basic

It is with profound sadness that the family of Milka Basic announce her peaceful passing on October 13, 2025, at the age of 83. She was a much-loved and adored wife, mother, Nonna, and friend.

She is predeceased by her husband, Romano (2019). She is survived by her children David (Laurie), Doris, and Tanja (Alan), and by her precious and adored grandchildren Benjamin, Hannah (Thomas), Grayden, Renata, and Gresham. Her grand-puppies, Kevin and Lily, will miss her cuddles.

Milka was born in Sutivanac, Istra, Croatia, and married Dad in 1960. They immigrated to Canada in 1967 with their young and growing family. They settled and raised their family in southern Ontario, where she always made certain to fill their home with love, culture, and traditions.

After their retirement in 2002, Milka and Romano moved to Nanaimo, B.C., to be closer to family. Milka embraced her new home in Nanaimo. She spent many hours in her garden and loved to share the bounty with neighbours and friends. Some of her favourite times were spent with her “girls.” The countless walks, coffee times, and chats brought such joy and laughter to her life. She considered you all family.

Special thanks to Olga and Isobel, whom Mom considered not only friends but sisters. Mom had an amazing gift for forming and maintaining friendships both near and far, and she cherished these relationships. Our family also extends much appreciation and gratitude to her friends and neighbours for their overwhelming support.

She was always available to her family and friends—anytime—for advice, love, and comfort. She was so wise.

We will miss her terribly, but we will continue to live our lives as Mom would have wanted us to: with grace, compassion, humility, and joy.

A celebration of Mom’s life will be planned in the spring—her favourite time of year—when friends and family can come together.